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What Is FTTP and How Does It Compare to FTTC?
With the 2027 landline switch-off rapidly approaching, UK and Irish businesses are facing critical decisions about their connectivity infrastructure. The demand for faster, more reliable...
Stephen
Digital Marketing Manager
- Published Date:
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With the 2027 landline switch-off rapidly approaching, UK and Irish businesses are facing critical decisions about their connectivity infrastructure. The demand for faster, more reliable business broadband has never been higher, particularly as remote work, cloud platforms, and VoIP phone systems become essential to daily operations.
Two terms you’ll encounter frequently in your broadband research are FTTP and FTTC. While both deliver internet via fibre-optic technology, the differences between them could significantly impact your business’s performance, costs, and future growth potential. This comprehensive guide will help you understand which solution aligns with your business needs and budget.
FTTP Explained: Full Fibre Broadband for Modern Businesses
FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) represents the gold standard in business connectivity. This technology delivers a pure fibre-optic connection directly from the exchange to your business premises, eliminating the speed and reliability limitations of traditional copper cables.
Key Benefits of FTTP:
- Lightning-fast speeds: Download speeds up to 1Gbps+ and upload speeds that match
- Symmetrical bandwidth: Equal upload and download speeds – perfect for video conferencing and cloud backups
- Future-ready infrastructure: Scalable technology that won’t become obsolete
- Superior VoIP performance: Crystal-clear call quality for cloud phone systems
- Unmatched reliability: Minimal service interruptions compared to part-fibre solutions
FTTP excels in supporting modern business applications like Microsoft Teams, CRM systems, and cloud-based software that require consistent, high-speed connectivity. For businesses in sectors like hospitality, healthcare, and education – where reliable communication is mission-critical – FTTP provides the robust foundation needed for seamless operations.
Yellowcom’s full fibre solutions are supported by local engineers across Belfast, Glasgow, and Dublin, ensuring expert installation and ongoing support when you need it most.
FTTC Explained: Part Fibre, Part Copper
FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet) represents a hybrid approach to broadband delivery. While fibre-optic cables carry data from the exchange to your local street cabinet, the final connection to your premises still relies on traditional copper telephone lines.
Benefits of FTTC:
- Cost-effective entry point: Lower monthly costs than full fibre
- Wider availability: Available in more locations across the UK and Ireland
- Suitable for basic needs: Adequate for small teams with modest internet requirements
Limitations to Consider:
- Speed degradation: Performance decreases with distance from the cabinet
- Upload limitations: Slower upload speeds can impact cloud backups and video calls
- VoIP quality concerns: May struggle with multiple concurrent calls
- Future limitations: Less capacity for business growth and new technologies
While FTTC can serve businesses with basic connectivity needs, it may become a bottleneck as your operations become more digital and demanding.
FTTP vs FTTC: A Comprehensive Comparison
| Feature | FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet) | FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) |
|---|---|---|
| Connection Type | Fibre to the street cabinet, copper to site | Full fibre direct to your premises |
| Maximum Download Speed | Up to 80 Mbps | Up to 1 Gbps and beyond |
| Maximum Upload Speed | Up to 20 Mbps | Up to 1 Gbps and beyond |
| Uptime & Reliability | Good – subject to local copper conditions | Excellent – full fibre ensures stability |
| VoIP & Cloud Readiness | Limited – may struggle with performance | Fully optimised for modern digital services |
| Distance Sensitivity | Yes – performance decreases with distance | No – consistent performance regardless |
| Best For | Light internet use, cost-sensitive setups | Growing businesses, remote and hybrid teams |
| Cost | ££ – lower upfront cost | £££ – higher investment, but better ROI |
| Future-Proofing | Limited scalability | Virtually unlimited – ideal for long-term use |
💬 Not sure which option suits your business? Request a free broadband assessment and quote today.
How to Choose the Right Option for Your Business
Selecting between FTTP and FTTC depends on several key factors specific to your business operations:
Consider FTTP if you:
- Have 10+ staff members regularly using the internet
- Rely heavily on cloud-based software (CRM, accounting, project management)
- Use or plan to implement VoIP phone systems
- Require reliable video conferencing capabilities
- Handle large file uploads/downloads regularly
- Operate in sectors like healthcare, hospitality, or professional services where downtime is costly
FTTC might suffice if you:
- Have a small team (under 10 people) with basic internet needs
- Primarily use email and light web browsing
- Have budget constraints but need better than standard ADSL
- Are in a temporary location or testing improved connectivity
Industry-Specific Considerations:
Hotels & Hospitality: Guest Wi-Fi expectations are higher than ever. FTTP ensures seamless connectivity across your property, supporting everything from online bookings to guest streaming services.
Healthcare & Dental: Patient management systems, digital X-rays, and telemedicine require reliable, high-speed connections that FTTP delivers consistently.
Education: With increasing reliance on digital learning platforms, FTTP supports hundreds of simultaneous device connections without performance degradation.
Professional Services: Law firms, accountants, and consultants handling sensitive client data need the security and speed that full fibre provides for encrypted file transfers and video consultations.
Why Choose Yellowcom for Your Business Broadband?
At Yellowcom, we understand that connectivity isn’t just about speed – it’s about enabling your business to operate efficiently and grow confidently. Here’s what sets us apart:
🏆 Local Expertise, Personal Service
- Dedicated engineers in Belfast, Glasgow, and Dublin
- Account managers who know your business by name
- Same-day support responses, not next-week appointments
📞 Integrated Solutions
- Business broadband and phone bundles that save money and eliminate compatibility issues
- Seamless integration with iPECS cloud phone systems
- Single point of contact for all your connectivity needs
💰 Transparent Pricing & Flexibility
- No hidden costs or surprise price increases
- Scalable solutions that grow with your business
- Free site surveys and honest recommendations
🔧 Professional Installation & Ongoing Support
- Full setup included across UK and Ireland
- Proactive monitoring and maintenance
- 24/7 support when you need it most
Frequently Asked Questions
What does FTTP mean in broadband?
FTTP stands for Fibre to the Premises – a full-fibre broadband solution that delivers internet connectivity directly to your business location via fibre-optic cables. This provides the fastest, most reliable internet connection available, with speeds up to 1Gbps+ and minimal service interruptions.
Is FTTP better than FTTC for business use?
Yes, FTTP is significantly better for most business applications. It delivers faster speeds, better reliability, and superior performance for VoIP phone systems, video conferencing, and cloud-based software. While the initial cost may be higher, the improved productivity and reduced downtime typically provide excellent return on investment.
How do I know if FTTP is available at my business location?
Yellowcom offers free postcode checks and professional site surveys to confirm full fibre availability at your premises. Our local engineers can assess your location and recommend the best connectivity options available in your area, including alternative solutions if FTTP isn’t yet available.
What’s the typical cost difference between FTTP and FTTC?
While FTTP generally costs 20-40% more per month than FTTC, businesses often see this offset by improved productivity, reduced downtime, and lower support costs. Many of our customers find that the reliability and performance benefits of FTTP actually save money in the long term through increased efficiency and fewer disruptions.
Can I upgrade from FTTC to FTTP with Yellowcom?
Absolutely. We handle the entire migration process from planning to installation. This includes coordinating the switch to minimise downtime, configuring your new connection, updating any VoIP phone systems, and ensuring all your business applications work seamlessly on the new service.
Will FTTP improve my VoIP phone system performance?
Yes, dramatically. FTTP’s symmetrical speeds and low latency are ideal for VoIP systems. You’ll experience clearer call quality, support for more concurrent calls, and advanced features like HD audio and video calling. Combined with our cloud phone systems, FTTP creates a powerful communication platform.
How long does FTTP installation typically take?
Installation timeframes vary by location and complexity, but typically range from 2-6 weeks from order to completion. This includes the external infrastructure work (if needed) and internal setup. Yellowcom manages the entire process and keeps you informed at every stage, ensuring minimal disruption to your business operations.
Is FTTP worth it for small businesses?
For most small businesses, yes. The reliability alone often justifies the cost – one day of internet downtime can cost more than months of FTTP service. Additionally, FTTP future-proofs your business for growth and new technologies, making it a smart long-term investment rather than just an operational expense.
Ready to Future-Proof Your Business Connectivity?
Don’t let outdated broadband hold your business back. With the 2027 landline switch-off approaching, now is the perfect time to upgrade to a modern, reliable connectivity solution that will serve your business for years to come.
Whether FTTP or FTTC is right for your business, Yellowcom’s local experts are here to guide you through the decision and handle the entire implementation process. We’ll assess your current setup, recommend the optimal solution for your needs and budget, and ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption.
Get started today:
- Free consultation: Book your assessment
- Phone: 03330 156 651 (UK) | 01263 5299 (Ireland)
- Email: hello@yellowcom.co.uk
Join hundreds of UK and Irish businesses who’ve already made the switch to reliable, high-speed connectivity with Yellowcom – your local telecommunications partner.
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